The Los Angeles Rams (6-2) are set to take on the San Francisco 49ers (6-3) this Sunday at 1:25 PM at Levi”s Stadium in Santa Clara. This matchup is crucial as both teams vie for a stronger position in the NFC West standings.
Fans can catch the game on FOX (Channel 11) or listen via 710 AM, 93.1 FM, and 1330 AM (Spanish). Sirius subscribers can tune in on channels 382 and 226. The Rams enter the contest favored by 3.5 points.
Injury concerns are notable for both teams. The Rams have wide receiver Jordan Whittington listed as questionable due to a back issue. The 49ers, on the other hand, will be without wide receiver Ricky Pearsall and defensive end Mykel Williams, both out with knee injuries. Several players are also questionable for the 49ers, including linebacker Tatum Bethune (thigh), quarterback Brock Purdy (toe), linebacker Dee Winters (knee), guard Ben Bartch (ankle), and defensive tackles Alfred Collins (hip) and Kalia Davis (ankle), along with defensive end Keion White (groin).
This game holds significant implications, as the winner will gain an upper hand in the NFC West race. A victory for the 49ers would also secure the head-to-head tiebreaker against the Rams, having already won their previous matchup this season.
Determining which team has the edge is challenging. While the 49ers emerged victorious in the last encounter, their current injury woes may hinder their performance compared to the healthier Rams. The coaching battle between Sean McVay and Kyle Shanahan does not provide a clear advantage either way.
A key matchup to observe will be the Rams” cornerbacks against the 49ers” wide receivers. In their last meeting, the 49ers” pass catchers overwhelmed the Rams” pass rush, allowing their offense to thrive. The Rams will rely on cornerbacks Emmanuel Forbes and Darious Williams to maintain their strong performance over the past three games, which is crucial for giving their defensive line the opportunity to pressure quarterback Mac Jones.
The Rams can secure a victory if they manage to limit running back Christian McCaffrey to under 80 rushing yards and if new kicker Harrison Mevis successfully makes all his attempts in his NFL debut. Additionally, putting consistent pressure on backup quarterback Mac Jones, aiming for at least three sacks, will be vital after a lackluster performance in their first meeting.
For fantasy enthusiasts, keep an eye on Rams tight end Davis Allen. He was close to scoring a touchdown against the Saints last week, and with the Rams looking to involve him in the red zone, he could be a valuable asset this week.
In terms of predictions, analysts forecast a close game with the Rams edging out the 49ers, projecting a final score of Rams 24, 49ers 21. Beat reporters have noted a strong season record so far, standing at 7-1 overall and 6-2 against the spread.
